Crafted by our analysts and editors and tested in PC Labs, our vast list of tips starts with the fundamentals of computing and then moves on to multimedia, mobility, business, and online solutions for maximizing your digital life.

ADVICE Disable screens for quicker shots
Most cameras have some sort of startup screen that appears when you turn the camera on and adds to the total time spent snagging a shot. Although all cameras have different menus, the option to disable it is generally in the main menu. Do so and you won't miss that precious shot.

 Decide before buying
Features are just as important as price. Learn about the features availableface detection, image stabilization, and so onand which ones you want, then see what can fit your budget. It'll ensure you have the camera and capabilities you want without blowing your budget.

 Always shoot at highest res
Always try to shoot photos at the highest resolution possible. You can always compress photos in Photoshop, but you can never add back detail you didn't capture in the first place.

 Study EXIF information
EXIF data, or Exchangeable Image File Format, is stored when a digital camera shoots an image. It includes information such as ISO settings, whether the flash has fired, and exposure settings, among a host of other values. Third-party software, such as ACDSee or Picasa, can expose this information: It will show you everything you wanted to know about your favorite photo.

 Tripods can be a huge help
Consider investing in a good tripodespecially if you will be shooting portraits or outside. It stabilizes images and makes framing shots much easier. If you hate opening these contraptions up, consider a single-leg monopod.

HOW-TO Go wide for better landscapes
If shooting a lot of landscape shots, try to find a point-and-shoot camera with a 16:9 aspect ratio. A widescreen shot is great for landscapes and will provide a panoramic view that regular 4:3 cameras can't get.

 Dodge the dark: Boost the ISO
Many amateur photographers assume that the flash will solve all of their lighting issues when they are shooting in a dark environment. This is simply not the case. If a room is too dark, the flash can overexpose your shot and your images will look horrible. Instead, shoot at a higher ISO setting without a flash. With a small amount of light and a high ISO, shots will come out much better.